The holiday season brings new chances to celebrate community in Philadelphia's Germantown neighborhood.
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The holiday season brings new chances to celebrate community in Philadelphia's Germantown neighborhood, when residents come together to support local entrepreneurs, connect with neighbors and get into the holiday spirit.
On Nov. 25, Small Business Saturday, the Germantown Arts District will host its inaugural Gratefully Germantown festival from 1-5 p.m. on the 5400 block of Germantown Avenue, which sits at the center of the neighborhood’s historic district. Attendees can browse and buy handcrafted goods from local artists while enjoying live music performances. Kids can make Thanksgiving-themed crafts as adults mingle and participate in community-building activities.
"Celebrating our local businesses and creative entrepreneurs intentionally is something we need to practice more," said Kristin Clark, founder of the Germantown Arts District. "Gratefully Germantown will give us an opportunity for just that, and for creating something as a community."
Clarke said she hopes the event will highlight the importance of the relationships between business owners and customers, beyond dollars and cents.
"I hope more neighbors value the people behind the storefronts," Clarke said. "And I hope shop owners and workers can find opportunities to show gratitude to the community they reside in."
On the same day, Germantown United CDC representatives will hand out complimentary tote bags to area businesses and customers as part of their annual #BuyLocalGermantown holiday campaign. The effort runs through the new year to encourage residents to keep spending locally.
More family fun happens the evening before on November 24th, when ARTrageous Brush and Flow hosts a holiday ornament painting workshop for kids. Young artists will be guided to paint their unique ornament creations to adorn trees or give as gifts.
On Thursday, Nov. 30, Germantown United CDC is holding a “get to know us’ pep rally at The Braid Mill at 441 High Street from 6-8 p.m., featuring music by DJ Jazzy Joe, and food and drink by Attic Brewing and Young American Hard Cider & Tasting Room.
Residents, local business owners, community organizations, and anyone who simply loves Germantown are welcome to come, make meaningful connections, exchange ideas, and discover new resources within our neighborhood.
Tickets are $5 and come with one complimentary drink.
"It's all about making meaningful connections and discovering new resources within Germantown," said CDC executive director Emaleigh Doley.
By coming together and investing locally during the season of giving, the community can support the historic neighborhood's continued revitalization, Doley said. Business owners encourage all to explore Germantown this holiday season and help keep dollars circulating close to home.
